Photosynthesis Process and Equation

Photosynthesis

• Photosynthesis is the process by which plants convert light energy into chemical energy in the form of glucose.
• Reactants: The process requires 6 molecules of carbon dioxide (CO₂) and 6 molecules of water (H₂O) and light energy.
• Products: The outputs are one molecule of glucose (C₆H₁₂O₆) and 6 molecules of oxygen (O₂).
• Light Energy: Photosynthesis uses light energy from the sun to drive the chemical reactions. Chlorophyll absorbs different wavelengths of light.
• Chlorophyll: Chlorophyll a and b are key pigments absorbing light in the blue and red regions of the electromagnetic spectrum. Green light is reflected.
• Location: Photosynthesis occurs primarily in chloroplasts within plant cells.
• Stages: Photosynthesis has two main stages: the light-dependent and light-independent reactions (Calvin cycle).
• Light-dependent Reactions: In the thylakoid membranes, light energy is converted into chemical energy (ATP and NADPH). Water is split, forming oxygen.
• Light-independent Reactions (Calvin Cycle): In the stroma, ATP and NADPH fuel carbon dioxide incorporation into glucose.
• Importance: Photosynthesis is essential for life on Earth; it powers food chains and creates the oxygen needed for respiration.
• Factors affecting photosynthesis: Light intensity, carbon dioxide concentration, temperature, and water availability affect the rate.
• Evolutionary significance: Photosynthesis, especially oxygen-producing photosynthesis, revolutionized the Earth's atmosphere, enabling aerobic life.